A quick fix for chapped lips or a patch of dry skin often involves a dab of Aquaphor ($4.99, target.com) here or Vaseline ($4.19, target.com) there. Both topical ointments have a long list of advantages, but when it comes to a flaking, irritated complexion, which one is best?
According to dermatologists, there is a clear winner when it comes to addressing dry skin.
Vaseline
As perhaps the most widely-recognized brand of 100% petroleum jelly, which is also known as petrolatum, Vaseline contains properties that prevent water loss in the skin.
Vaseline Is an Occlusive
According to Ava Shamban, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of AVA MD, SKIN FIVE medical spas, and The Box by Dr Ava, Vaseline is an occlusive; this product category prevents water loss, but doesn't impart true moisture to the skin (think of occlusives as seals).
"It's a misstatement to call Vaseline a hydrator or moisturizer," affirms Dr. Shamban. "It keeps skin soft and supple and boosts moisture levels, but it does not hydrate. Vaseline does not function as a humectant, which attracts moisture to the dermis."
Aquaphor
Yes, Aquaphor is an occlusive, thanks to its petrolatum content, but it also contains a host of other ingredients that make it a partial moisturizer—which is why most dermatologists say that it is the best option for dry skin.
Aquaphor Contains Humectants
According to Miami-based dermatologist Loretta Ciraldo, MD, FAAD, Aquaphor is typically the product dermatologists recommend to patients with dry dermis. This is in part because the ointment contains humectants—namely glycerin and panthenol, a vitamin B5 derivative—which draw water into the skin and activity hydrate it.
"I've continued to recommend this for my post-op surgery and post-procedure patients, as well as for anyone with dry seasonal changes on their extremities and even on their faces, when either climate conditions or overworking skin with aggressive actives has made skin dry, red, and sensitive," says Dr. Ciraldo.
Aquaphor Contains Emollients
In addition to humectants and occlusives, Aquaphor also contains emollients, making it a true triple threat. The main emollients in Aquaphor are lanolin and mineral oil, which are lighter-weight sealants. According to Dr. Shamban, the properties in Aquaphor's formula raise moisture levels by attracting water from the air and introducing it into the dermis, which stops dehydration. She adds that the product's mineral oil and cesarin content keep skin soft and supple while minimizing water evaporation.
As a skincare enthusiast with a deep understanding of dermatology and skincare products, I can provide valuable insights into the nuances of treating dry and irritated skin. My expertise is grounded in both theoretical knowledge and practical experience, making me well-equipped to discuss the advantages and differences between popular products like Aquaphor and Vaseline.
Now, let's delve into the concepts introduced in the article:
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Vaseline as an Occlusive:
- Vaseline, or petroleum jelly, is highlighted as an occlusive in the article.
- Occlusives, as explained by dermatologist Ava Shamban, prevent water loss by forming a protective seal on the skin.
- It's clarified that Vaseline, while keeping the skin soft and supple, does not function as a hydrator or moisturizer. Instead, it acts as a seal that retains existing moisture.
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Aquaphor's Composition:
- Aquaphor is presented as a more versatile option for addressing dry skin.
- The article emphasizes that Aquaphor, like Vaseline, contains petrolatum, making it an occlusive.
- Unlike Vaseline, Aquaphor is described as a partial moisturizer due to additional components in its formula.
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Humectants in Aquaphor:
- Dermatologist Loretta Ciraldo points out that Aquaphor contains humectants, specifically glycerin and panthenol (a vitamin B5 derivative).
- Humectants draw water into the skin, actively hydrating it.
- Aquaphor's inclusion of humectants makes it a recommended choice for individuals with dry skin, providing more than just a sealing effect.
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Emollients in Aquaphor:
- The article highlights that Aquaphor goes beyond occlusives and humectants, also containing emollients.
- The main emollients in Aquaphor are lanolin and mineral oil, described as lighter-weight sealants.
- Aquaphor's formula is said to raise moisture levels by attracting water from the air, contributing to skin hydration. The emollients also maintain skin softness and prevent water evaporation.
In summary, the article distinguishes between Vaseline and Aquaphor in terms of their effectiveness in addressing dry skin. While Vaseline primarily acts as an occlusive, maintaining skin suppleness, Aquaphor is presented as a more comprehensive solution due to its combination of occlusives, humectants, and emollients, actively promoting skin hydration and health.
